Friday Travel Tip - Cyprus - History In Cyprus

Cyprus is an island that is covered with scars from its history. The geographical location of this island made it an important location strategically during many battles, and even today it holds several army bases. Fortunately one of the oldest pieces of important Cypriot history has nothing to do with war, and is in fact the birthplace of love. According to some archaeologists it is believed that Aphrodite was born on the shores of Cyprus, more specifically in the area near Petra tou Romiou.

The country is also littered with more than a dozen castles built mostly between the 10th and 16th century. These castles cover the island and once served as military posts, religious areas, and even as living areas. While some of these castles are in ruins, many such as Limassol Castle and Larnaca Castle are still in great condition and open to tourists. Another great piece of Byzantine architecture is the wall that surrounds the old town in Nicosia. Parts of the this wall are blocked off and not really accessible, however places like Famagousta gate are easy to find and offer you an opportunity for an up close look at this great piece of architecture.

History in Cyprus doesn't have to go back too far. With the continuing conflict between the Greek Cypriot army and Turkish army, there is evidence of the battles fought here in the 1960s and 70s all over the island. There are bullet holes in building, old flags, and even bunkers that are still in use all along the buffer zone.

Later